Lexington Ordinance Guide: Traffic Calming & School Signs

Transportation Kentucky 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 09, 2026 Flag of Kentucky

In Lexington, Kentucky, residents who want speed bumps, roundabouts, or school zone signs must follow city processes and coordinate with Traffic Engineering and related departments. This guide explains typical petition steps, who enforces rules, what forms or studies may be required, and how appeals work under Lexington municipal practice.

Overview of Petition Options

Requests for traffic calming or new traffic control devices usually begin with the Traffic Engineering Division or the Department of Public Works. Petition types include neighborhood traffic calming (speed cushions or bumps), intersection redesigns including roundabouts, and school zone signage or pavement markings. Engineering review, field studies, and community notification are common elements in the evaluation.

For official program information and contact details, consult the Traffic Engineering Division page [1].

Start by contacting Traffic Engineering to learn the specific data and signatures required.

Typical Evaluation Criteria

  • Engineering study requirements: speed study, volume, crash history, and roadway classification.
  • Community support: petition thresholds and nearby resident notification.
  • Technical constraints: emergency vehicle access, drainage, and utility conflicts.
  • Network impacts: effect on traffic diversion, school routing, and transit.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorized installation or alteration of traffic control devices and roadway works is handled by the city through Public Works, Traffic Engineering, and code enforcement channels. Specific monetary fines, escalation, and formal sanctions are governed by the city code and related regulations.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages [2].
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited pages [2].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, stop-work directives, restoration requirements, and civil court actions as authorized by the city code [2].
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Traffic Engineering Division and Code Enforcement in Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government; contact details on the Traffic Engineering page [1].
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes or time limits for notices and orders are not specified on the cited pages; refer to the city code or contact Traffic Engineering for appeal timelines [2].
If you plan any work on public ROW, get written approval first to avoid enforcement actions.

Applications & Forms

The Traffic Engineering Division manages petitions and application materials. Specific form names, application numbers, fees, and deadlines are not fully specified on the cited program pages; contact Traffic Engineering for the current petition form, submittal method, and any fee schedule [1][2].

Action Steps for Residents

  • Contact Traffic Engineering to request program guidance and obtain any petition or request forms [1].
  • Gather required data: signatures, photos, and evidence of safety concerns.
  • Submit the petition or request and allow time for field studies and engineering review.
  • Attend any public meetings or hearings and follow posted timelines for appeals if an order is issued.
Engineering review often includes speed and volume studies before any physical device is approved.

FAQ

How do I petition for a speed bump in my Lexington neighborhood?
Contact Traffic Engineering to request the neighborhood traffic calming evaluation and obtain the petition procedure; a formal petition or request is generally required and the division will advise on required supporting data [1].
Can I install a roundabout or traffic sign myself?
No. Installation or modification of signs or roadway geometry on public streets requires city approval; unauthorized work may trigger removal orders and enforcement [2].
Who decides school zone speed signs?
School zone signs on local streets are coordinated by Traffic Engineering; signs on state routes follow Kentucky Transportation Cabinet rules and standards [3].

How-To

  1. Call or email Traffic Engineering to request the traffic calming or signage petition packet [1].
  2. Collect evidence: signatures, photos, crash reports, and descriptions of the problem.
  3. Submit the completed petition/form and any required maps or documents to Traffic Engineering.
  4. Allow the city to conduct engineering studies and field visits; respond to any requests for clarification.
  5. Participate in public notification or meetings; if approved, coordinate timing and payment responsibilities if applicable.

Key Takeaways

  • Begin with Traffic Engineering to learn the program-specific petition requirements [1].
  • Engineering studies and community support are typical prerequisites for installation.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government - Traffic Engineering program and contact
  2. [2] Lexington-Fayette Code of Ordinances (municipal code)
  3. [3] Kentucky Transportation Cabinet - School Zone policies and standards

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